TransDEM is able to read, write and visualise certain vector data formats. The built-in Simple Route Editor also allows to create and edit vector data.
Vector data in TransDEM is built of polylines to represent railway lines, roads, water courses or other line type features.
TransDEM reads and writes vector data either as polylines or as sequences of points. The following file formats are supported, some with certain limitations:
.str, this is the Zusi 2 format for routes and also the TransDEM default format.
.dxf, a widely used text file format originally for AutoCAD® to exchange vector data;
.ovl, a text file format used by German and Austrian digital map products employing the Geogrid®-Viewer by EADS-Dornier, e.g. German Top50 CDs or Austrain Amap
.xyz, a very basic text file format, predominantly used for elevation data;
.mkr, a Unicode format for marker symbols in conjunction used for route building in MS Train Simulator ©.
.gpx, an XML based format for GPS data exchange
Zusi .str is the preferred format for saving and should be used to save vector data for non-Zusi projects, too. Saving in other formats may loose information or accuracy.
Vector data can be rendered in combination with a DEM or with georeferenced raster maps, plans and orthophotos.
An example with a track plan of a railway station, rendered on top of a DEM:
Another example with a georeferenced orthophoto:
The Simple Route Editor allows to create and edit vector data. It generates polylines from multiple straight line segments. Mouse operation and context menu are the main means of interaction with this editor.
Creation of a new polyline by placing points using the mouse cursor. Reopening and continuation of a previously completed polyline. Continuation of a polyline beyond current window boundaries. The window can be panned or zoomed without interrupting polyline creation.
Moving of individual points of a polyline, single and multiple polylines
Duplication of single and multiple polylines
Removal of single and multiple polylines
Adding and removal of points in a polyline
Merge and split polylines
various display options
The following image shows vector data with the Simple Route Editor activated. A selected polyline is rendered in dark blue, unselected polylines in light blue. One of the editor options here is set to amrk oall points including those of unselected polylines. Points are shown as arrowheads for selected polylines with the tip marking the direction of construction.
Right clicking with the mouse opens the context menu which offers a variety of functions, depending on the current position of the cursor, e.g. on a point, between two points on a polyline segment, or next to a polyline.
A separate function allows measuring of distances. The user sets start and end point my mouse operations. TransDEM will show the result in the status bar. In the example the length of the platform is 211 metres.
© 2003 - 2007 Roland Ziegler
